Undergraduate Majors

Economics

Supply the demand

Globalization and technology continue to change the field of economics, and those who specialize in this field must be familiar with not only the practical tools and processes shaping this area, but with the theory that allows professionals to solve problems and provide sound guidance to companies and regulatory bodies. That’s at the core of the Stevens Economics major. The curriculum emphasizes both technology and exposure to international aspects of economics, including an optional study abroad component. Courses emphasize the three areas identified by the American Economic Association as critical to student success in this industry: logical problem solving, data analysis, and compelling speech and writing.

“What I’m finding I like most about the classes I’m taking is that I can see myself applying these skills, and I do see a lot of improvement. You’re just put in these situations to work with groups, and you get a week to build a presentation, do a SWOT analysis, and then you have to get up and present for 45 minutes. Making that happen just builds your confidence and presentation skills.”

Eddy Scanlan, Economics studentClass of 2016

Economics major

In addition to two courses in Economics they take as part of the business core curriculum, all students pursuing a major in Economics must complete the following courses:

Students also are required to complete an economics elective as part of the core.

Practice core

A strong educational foundation has to offer more than just the latest theory and research. At Stevens, this is accomplished through a high placement rate for internships, but also through the practice core, which requires students to engage in high-level analysis of selected companies that they follow, under the close guidance of faculty, throughout their undergraduate career. It culminates in the Stevens Innovation Expo, where students work in teams to either pursue a startup business concept of their creation, or work with executives at a New York-area business on a real-world consulting project. It’s one of the strongest examples of learning by doing — a value emphasized by Stevens and the Howe School — and it provides instant credibility for each student’s résumé.

In addition to the core of specific courses required for their major, students complete a suite of courses giving them a thorough understanding and appreciation for the business fundamentals, including marketing, finance, accounting, economics, operations, business law, information systems, international business, entrepreneurship, strategy, organizational behavior and management. Stevens’ unique teaching approach combines current theory and research with a practical understanding of how technology can be leveraged for business success. Students develop critical thinking and strong presentation skills as they work collaboratively on case studies that allow them to apply the theory they learn to solve complex business problems.

No education in business is complete without a well-rounded appreciation of the many different fields that complement and influence the traditional business disciplines. The liberal arts and sciences core is a distinguishing feature of a Stevens education, and helps students hone talents such as written and oral communication and teamwork, while gaining a broader perspective on the world around them through courses in literature, political science, history and the social sciences.

Top careers in economics

Students in the Economics program develop an international perspective and an appreciation for the technology that makes predictive modeling possible. The skillset taught at Stevens prepares graduates for work in consulting, government and insurance, as well as analyst jobs at major companies. Some careers our students pursue upon graduating:

Market research analystActuaryManagement consultant

Standout course

Banking, Credit and Financial Institutions

Technology and globalization have brought sweeping changes to financial markets and institutions. This course offers an in-depth look at the functions and structure of financial markets, including securities exchanges, investment management vehicles, market makers and banks; economic and monetary policy, and their impacts on financial markets; and changing trends in the global financial system.